Interaction studies on Rhizoctonia solani, sheath blight pathogen andbrown plant hopper (Nilaparvata lugens) in rice

Interaction between R. solani and BPH in rice

Abstract

The association of sheath blight (Rhizoctonia solani), a widespread fungal disease in rice and the brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens), a major rice pest, presents a significant challenge in rice production. Brown planthopper feeding may increase plant susceptibility to sheath blight by weakening plant defenses and facilitating fungal invasion through the wounds they create. The synergistic effects of brown planthopper and sheath blight infestation result in significant yield losses, complicating management strategies. Three sets of interactions were conducted, among the three sets, the highest disease severity was recorded in the set 1
(Simultaneous inoculation of BPH and Rhizoctonia solani) (73.33%) followed by set 2 (Release of BPH and subsequent inoculation of Rhizoctonia solani after 7 days) (60%) and least disease severity was observed in set 3 (BPH release after 7 days of inoculation with Rhizoctonia solani) (57.04%). This study aims to investigate the complex interaction between brown planthopper and sheath blight in rice, focusing on how these interactions influence disease progression and pest dynamics, and to provide insights into improved management strategies for rice farmers facing both threats.